So I'm driving my '03 Cooper down the street today and as I'm braking after going 40-50 mph, I notice a very very faint "chh chh chh chh..." noise as I come to a stop.

Going short distances (like a few blocks between stop signs) or letting up and then braking (say, at a light) doesn't make the sound.

No noticeable difference in braking power or ability.

I should also maybe mention that my front wheels are... filthy.

Any ideas, anyone?

 

How many miles? Any new lights on the dash?

 

35,000 miles, no lights on the dash.

 

leigh,

Check you front strut tower bushings. If they are torn/ripped, that extra movement could be the cause of the noise and poor breaking.

let us know how you make out

 

Also, check to make sure the caliper BRACKET bolts are still in place.

If one of them comes out, the caliper and bracket can pivot under braking and scrape slightly on the inside diameter of the wheel (don't ask how I know).

Kev